Looking for an improvised weapon that can be carried anywhere? How about one that can help defend against a knife attack, or provide protection from the elements as well as first-aid use?
Well, the fighting Bandanna might be the improvised weapon for you.
In Volume One of the Comtech "Fighting Bandanna", tactical fighting instructor James Keating introduces us to the use of the Bandanna as a flexible weapon. All the principles apply to similar tools such as belts, short rope, piece of garden hose, etc.
Keating's approach is based on the "Panu" scarf techniques seen in Filipino and Indonesian arts, but with a street-smart western approach. His delivery is very clear and Keating moves with the authority of a well-practiced expert.
In "Getting Started", Keating shows us how to knot the Bandanna and use it in a whip-like motion to attack targets such as the eye. This is clearly more effective than it may sound, as he develops further methods involving weighted Bandannas capable of breaking glass bottles. All striking angles are covered.
We are next introduced to using the Bandanna to assist in stopping knife thrusts and the angles necessary to neutralize the attack.
The knife disarms used will look familiar to weapon-stripping techniques used in other arts, and the use of the Bandanna gives us more leverage and a degree of safety, being one step removed from contact with the blade. Wrapping the blade, joint manipulation and other techniques are employed.
In "secondary attacks", Keating goes beyond a simple thrust and deals with alternative weapons (tomahawk or hammer), reverse grip knife attacks, and dealing with a "one-two" weapon-punch attack with the opponent using both hands. This includes arm trapping methods also seen in other arts. Keating makes a clear point of showing many of the techniques empty handed, which helps us see how the Bandanna supplements the technique. All knives used are large "Bowie" style trainers that are very imposing, and the defense emphasis is on non-lethal control techniques.
In "Further development", Keating concludes with useful methods of installing small weighted objects into the Bandanna, intensifying the striking capabilities of the weapon. Using the Bandanna to conceal weapons and other ideas are discussed.
Keating makes it clear that the "Fighting Bandanna" is a concept video. He reminds us that many of the techniques can be applied with a variety of improvised flexible weapons. It's any one's worst nightmare to be confronted by an aggressor with a knife, and we are advised to run away and live to fight another day.
But familiarity with simple improvised weapons such as the Bandanna could save us from an initial attack, giving us that opportunity to escape.
Having a training partner is essential for learning the concepts in this video. I know I will write down a few notes and take them to the Dojo with Bandannas and wooden knives. Practice is essential.
Here is the Contact information for James Keating and Comtech:
Ph: 541-938-3451
Email: comtech@bmi.net
Mailing address:
COMTECH
POB 142
Walla Walla, Wa. 99362
And here is the embedded link for other products at Comtech
Volume Two review here
